Bill Gates has announced a monumental pledge to donate 99% of his remaining wealth, estimated at approximately $200 billion, to the Gates Foundation, which he co-founded with ex-wife Melinda French Gates in 2000. This decision will enable the foundation to allocate an additional $200 billion over the next two decades, with plans to close by December 31, 2045. Melinda has expressed her support for this move, describing it as a long-standing intention of theirs. The foundation has been instrumental in global health initiatives, including vaccine distribution and combating diseases like polio and malaria. Gates emphasized the importance of this commitment, stating it will maximize the impact of their philanthropic efforts and signal a definitive end to the foundation's influence.
Bill Gates, the co-founder of Microsoft, has announced his intention to give away 99% of his wealth, amounting to approximately $200 billion, through his charitable foundation by 2045. This decision marks a significant acceleration in his philanthropic efforts, as he aims to address urgent global issues such as eradicating diseases, reducing poverty, and improving maternal and child health. Gates criticized fellow billionaire Elon Musk for his role in cutting U.S. foreign aid, which he claims threatens the lives of millions of children. The Gates Foundation, which has already donated $100 billion, plans to close its operations by 2045, reflecting a shift from its original long-term strategy. Gates emphasized the need for government support in global health initiatives, highlighting the potential consequences of reduced aid funding.
Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin held extensive talks in Moscow, reaffirming their nations' strategic partnership ahead of the 80th anniversary of the Soviet victory in World War II. The two leaders discussed deepening bilateral ties across various sectors, including military cooperation, trade, and investment, while issuing a joint statement opposing U.S. unilateralism. Xi's visit, which included a ceremonial welcome and a military parade, highlighted China's economic support for Russia amid Western sanctions due to the ongoing war in Ukraine. Both leaders emphasized their nations' roles as stabilizing forces in the international community, pledging to work together against perceived coercion from the West. The summit also addressed ongoing tensions regarding Taiwan, with Russia reaffirming its support for China's claims.
World Central Kitchen, a prominent humanitarian organization, has ceased operations of its community soup kitchens across Gaza due to an ongoing Israeli blockade that has severely restricted food and aid supplies. The group, which was providing 133,000 meals daily, announced that it could no longer operate as its warehouses are empty. This blockade, which began on March 2, has exacerbated the humanitarian situation in Gaza, where malnutrition and hunger are rampant. The United Nations and various aid agencies have reported that the blockade has led to dire conditions for the 2.4 million residents, with many community kitchens shutting down and water supplies dwindling. In response, dozens of U.S. House Democrats have urged Israel to lift the blockade and allow humanitarian aid to flow into the region. Meanwhile, proposals for new aid distribution systems are being discussed, raising concerns about the potential militarization of humanitarian efforts.
In a significant escalation of hostilities, India and Pakistan have exchanged missile and drone strikes, leading to casualties on both sides. India accused Pakistan of attempting to attack its military bases in Jammu, Udhampur, and Pathankot, while Pakistan denied these claims, asserting it was responding to Indian aggression. The situation intensified following an attack in April that killed 26 Indian tourists, which India attributed to Pakistan-based militants. Both nations have faced international calls for de-escalation as fears of a broader conflict grow, with reports indicating at least 48 fatalities since the onset of the latest violence. The U.S. and other world leaders are urging restraint and dialogue to prevent further escalation between the nuclear-armed neighbors.
